Six-year-old St Annes girl can sit with mum for the first time thanks to £1k charity donation

The six-year-old, who lives on Singleton Avenue, St Annes, was given a special chair by the charity Children Today, which means she can now sit at eye-level with her mum Marilia for the very first time.

The £1,000 portable posture chair gives Louisa the support she needs while sitting outside of her wheelchair.

Marilia, 41, said: “Now she can be at eye level with other people and see what’s going on in the room rather than always having a view from down below, looking up. Now she can look people in the eye instead.

“It makes it easier for her to socialise and be part of what’s going on in the room, for people to approach her and talk to her - it’s so much better.

"Being a family of special needs can be very isolating, because the outside world is not prepared for us. If you're able-bodied you don't really need much support, but somebody like Louisa does, and if she doesn't have that support then she can't go out."

Louisa was born prematurely at 30 weeks and suffered a severe brain bleed, which led to her being diagnosed with cerebral palsy and epilepsy.

Before she was given her special Stabilo Cushion-type chair, her mum would have to prop her up with cushions or place her on the floor when out and about.

Marilia said: "She can't sit up, she can't lift her head up, she can't walk or crawl. Even though we have all these difficulties she's still the most adorable little girl. She has the most infectious smile and laugh. She communicates with her eyes.

"Louisa is really pleased to be no longer stuck in her chair. She's happy and comfortable and it's easier for people to get to her. She feels like part of what's going on, and not like part of the furniture."

Children Today charity director Emma Prescott said: "Louisa's story is just one example of the amazing impact the equipment, which we provide grants for, has on the children and young people we support. We're over the moon to hear about wonderful stories like this little girl's and how the specialised equipment can be life-enhancing not just for the individual, but their loved ones too.

"If you would like to help us continue to support more children like Louisa, you can visit our website to make a donation to our small charity. As we receive no funding from the Government or NHS, we are reliant on donations from individuals and businesses to keep making a difference to the lives of children and young people in need. We appreciate every bit of support."